Talking prescriptions for the visually impaired is now a state law

Rx readers that talk to you now mandated for visually impaired and blind Nevadans to have access to. (Heather Mills | KSNV)

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) —

Imagine not being able to read the directions on a prescription bottle?

That’s the reality for nearly 100,000 Nevadans who are blind or visually impaired. But, technology and Nevadans willing to push for more, are paving the way for our visually impaired community.

Bill Powers testified before the senate after Nevada Senator Mo Denis sponsored SB 131, which went into effect January 1, 2018. It mandates pharmacies have prescription readers like ScripTalk. It reads aloud dosage information that’s embedded in a small chip on the bottom of a prescription bottle.

“I used to try using a magnifier,” Powers said. He’s been using his ScripTalk for a few years. “There would be no way I could read these bottles,” he added.

Now, state law requires access for everyone that’s visually impaired. He said it’s a game changer.

“We lose people every year because they take the medications they’re not supposed to when they’re not supposed to.” Powers said it’s another step for the blind community.

“Living with a disability is scary,” said Gustavo Covarrubias Garcia. He’s the Communication Manager at Blind Center of Nevada. He’s also a student at UNLV and said his goal is to support the community that’s supported him, “You need to advocate for yourself.”

He first started working at the Blind Center in the program that recycles electronics.

“When I began to work here I dismantled computers," said Gustavo.

60% of the funding comes from the program. They take old or unwanted electronics and refurbish and resell them.

The newly expanded Blind Center of Nevada is serving the community in a much larger facility.

The new building just opened in February, it’s 35,000 square feet and getting ready to add programs like Culinary Arts and even a children’s program.